Locust Digitate Leafminer Moth
Common NameLocust Digitate Leafminer Moth
Scientific NameParectopa robiniella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, orange
HabitatForests, woodlands, urban areas where host plants are present
Geographic RangeNorth America (native), Europe, Asia (introduced)
Host PlantsRobinia pseudoacacia, Robinia hispida, Gleditsia triacanthos
Flight PeriodMay to October (multivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic 'digitate' or finger-like mines within the leaves of their host plants, primarily Black Locust. Pupation occurs within the mine or in a cocoon on the leaf surface.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white head tuft and the complex pattern of white and metallic orange-gold markings on dark brown forewings. The unique digitate leaf mines on Black Locust are also a strong indicator.
Description
A very small, slender moth with dark brown forewings featuring intricate white bands and metallic orange-gold markings, particularly towards the apex. It has a prominent white head tuft.
